Anhydrous polysaccharide films

ABSTRACT

This invention relates to anhydrous polymer film compositions containing various polysaccharide ingredients useful for numerous applications. The invention relates to anhydrous liquid compositions that, when dried down, form a film that can release desired ingredients in a controlled and extended-use way. The films can be erodible, partially soluble or completely soluble when used in conjunction with water or water vapor.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to anhydrous polymer film compositions containingvarious polysaccharide ingredients useful for numerous applications. Thefilms can be erodible, partially soluble or completely soluble when usedin conjunction with water or water vapor.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The background of this invention is related to the field of shaving;however, during the development of this invention, it was determinedmodifications in the selection of active ingredients would broaden useto include skin care, hair care, dermatology, drug delivery, wound care,fabric softeners, hydrophilic polyurethane foams and solid laundrydetergents.

There are a variety of shaving materials and implements for use on skin.For example, razors used in conjunction with shave creams not onlycontain blades for removal facial hair, but contain strips at the top ofa cartridge or razor for releasing lubricious ingredient such aspolyethylene oxide making the shaving experience smoother and morecomfortable when wetted.

These razors or cartridges that contain these so called “comfort strips”are usually made by incorporating high molecular weight polyethyleneoxide polymer (PEO) in various plastics via high temperature extrusionor injection molding. The difficulty with these strips is they havelimited function in releasing the (PEO) polyethylene oxide when wettedduring the shaving experience. The PEO functions in a time release modebut usually lasts for only 5 to 7 shaves. Moreover, there is littleadditional benefit to the skin during the shaving experience from thesestrips. The high temperature method of manufacture limits the kinds andamount of other skin care ingredients that can be incorporated.

As a result of these observations, there is a need for a new lubriciousshaving ingredient(s) other than PEO and a solid system where a varietyof skin care and other ingredients can be included and dispensed on avariety of surfaces.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

This invention is based on the discovery that the combination of certainingredients in an anhydrous solvent forms an anhydrous liquidcomposition that, when dried down, forms a film that can release desiredingredients in a controlled and extended-use way—addressing the problemsidentified above. The novelty of the invention is very high levels ofpolysaccharides can be dispersed in anhydrous fluid compositions andwhen dried release a very lubricious action on surfaces in a controlledmanner when exposed to water or water vapor. The invention also hasother advantages described below.

Specifically, in one embodiment, this invention entails an anhydrousfluid composition containing at least one base polymer group (BPG), atleast one polysaccharide, and an anhydrous solvent. By “anhydrouscomposition” it is meant no or only trace amounts of water or watervapor is present in the fluid anhydrous composition. Water isundesirable because it can react with the polysaccharide component(especially polysaccharides like CMC). Therefore, water cannot bepresent in an amount that it would react with polysaccharide, andinterfere with the function of the polysaccharide as described herein.

Optionally, one or more additional ingredients may be included which arereleasable from the film that is the dried-down product of the liquidcomposition. These additional ingredients should not interfere with theanhydrous character of the fluid composition, or the interaction of theBPG and the polysaccharide, or the ability of the fluid to form a solidfilm when dried. For instance, additional ingredients may includevarious skin care ingredients useful for residual skin feel, or thoseuseful for improving shaving, or having medicinal or cleansingproperties. Other ingredients such as proteins, starches, phytosterols,ceramides, proteins, and other hydrocolloids can be included as well. Adetailed description of such additional ingredients is below.

In a second embodiment, the invention entails a film that contains atleast one base polymer group (BPG), at least one polysaccharide, andoptionally one or more ingredients that are releasable from the film. Asnoted above, the additional ingredients should not interfere with theanhydrous character of the fluid composition, or the interaction of theBPG and the polysaccharide, or the ability of the fluid to form a solidfilm when dried. This film is the result of drying down, or otherwiseremoving the anhydrous solvent from the above-described liquidcomposition. The solid film preferably should be tack free, flexible,capable of being coated on surfaces and cast into various thicknesses.

It should be noted that the combination of BPG and polysaccharide aloneprovides benefits, even in the absence of other ingredients. Forinstance, this combination alone when dried to form a film provides anunusual lubricious action when wetted or used on wet skin. Thiscombination can also be used as a platform for the release of a widevariety of ingredients when used with water or water vapor.

In another embodiment, our invention entails multiple uses andapplications of the liquid and, especially, the film. The methods aredescribed in further detail below.

The base polymer group (BPG) may include one or more polyamide polymers,stearoxymethicone/dimethicone copolymer, C30-45 alkyl methicone,behenoxyPEG-10 dimethicone, bis-PEG-18methyl ether dimethylsilane,C30-45 alkyl dimethicone, bisPEG-8 dimrthicone, bis-stearyl dimethicone,bis-PEG-12 dimethicone, dimethicone/cyclomethicone/phenyltrimethicone/trimethylsiloxysilicate, polyvinylcaprolactam,trimethylpentanediol/adipic acid/glycerin crosspolymer, bis-PEG-12dimethicone beeswax, cetearyl alcohol/ceteareth-20, VP/eicosenecopolymer, acrylates/octylacrylamide copolymer, VA/crotonates/vinylneodecanoate copolymer, acrylates copolymer, and vinylcaprolactam/VP/dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate copolymer. Preferably,the one or more BPG is present in the liquid composition in the amountbetween about 15 wt. % and about 50 wt % (wt % of the entire liquidcomposition.)

Examples of most preferred base polymer group polymers used hereininclude polyimide polymers, stearoxymethicone/dimethicone copolymer,dimethicone/cyclomethicone/phenyl trimethicone/trimethylsiloxysilicate,trimethylpentanediol/adipic acid/glycerin crosspolymer,polyvinylcaprolactam, acrylates copolymer and combinations thereof.

The one or more of polysaccharides may be one of carboxy methylcellulose, alginate, carrageenan, locust bean gum, xanthan gum, sodiumhyaluronate, pectin, and mixtures thereof. One preferred category ofpolysaccharides is carboxy methyl cellulose are those that providelubricious action when applied to wet skin or other surfaces resultingin flexible films on these surfaces.

The anhydrous solvent must be a solvent in which both the BPG and thepolysaccharide can be dispersed in, in the liquid embodiment. To qualifyas “anhydrous” for purposes of this invention, the solvent should haveno more than 0.1% water. Preferably, in the anhydrous fluid compositionthe one or more solvent is present in an amount of about 10 wt. % toabout 55 wt. % (wt % of the entire liquid composition). Solvents thatare suitable for use in the liquid composition include C₂ to C₁₂alcohols and isomers thereof, or one or more C₅ to C₂₀ alkanes oralkenes, or isomers thereof, and combinations of these.

The anhydrous fluid composition may contain a variety of activeingredients such as skin care including polyethylene glycol, laurellactate/myristyl lactate/cetyl lactate, isostearyl neopentanonte,octyldodecyl sterol stearate, myristyl stearate, caprylic/caprictri-glyceride, C12-C15 alkyl benzoate, dipentaerythritylhexacaprylate/hexacaprate,

The anhydrous fluid composition may further comprise active agents,cleaning agents, processing aids, or combinations thereof. Preferably,the active agents are therapeutic active agents and comprise one or moreof aloe, vitamins, emollients, moisturizers, clotting agents,anti-chafing agents, fragrances, depilatory agents, essential oils,antioxidants, alpha-hydroxy acids, alpha-keto acids, anti-bacterials,anti-fungals, anti-microbials, anti-virals, analgesics,anti-allergenics, antihistamines, anti-inflammatory agents such assuperoxide dismutase, anti-irritants, anti-neoplastics, anti-acneagents, anti-aging agents, anesthetics, antiseptics, insect repellents,skin cooling compounds, skin warming compounds, skin protectants, skinpenetration enhancers, exfoliants, lubricants, or combinations thereof.Preferably, the cleaning agents comprise de-greasers, surfactants,enzymes, fabric conditioners, anti-microbials, anti-bacterials,anti-fungals, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the processing aidsare fillers comprising talc, clay, and diatomaceous earth, orcombinations thereof.

When the liquid composition is dried, the result is an anhydrous watersensitive solid film composition containing a base polymer group (BPG)and a polysaccharide, and optionally, one or more additional desired andcompatible ingredient (chosen depending on the desired end-use of thefilm). Preferably, the BPG(s) are present in the amount of 10 wt % toabout 50% wt % based on total weight of the anhydrous film. Preferably,the polysaccharide is present in the film in the amount of approximately5 wt % to 60 wt % based on the total weight of the film. Examples ofuseful BPGs include one or more polyamides,stearoxymethicone/dimethicone copolymer, bis-PEG-12 dimethicone,di-methicone/cyclomethicone/phenyl trimethicone/trimethylsiloxysilicate,bis-stearyl dimethicone, polyvinylcaprolactam,trimethylpentanediol/adipic acid/glycerin crosspolymer. A particularlyuseful polysaccharide is carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC). Other activeingredients such as polyethylene glycol for residual effects on surfacesor film modification can be included. By “water sensitive” it is meantthe dried film can be eroded or partially solubilized when in contactwith water or water vapor.

The preferred base polymer group (BPG) comprises one or more polyamidespolymers, stearoxymethicone/dimethicone copolymer, C30-45 alkylmethicone, behenoxyPEG-10 dimethicone, bis-PEG-18methyl etherdimethylsilane, C30-45 alkyl dimethicone, bisPEG-8 dimethicone,bis-stearyl dimethicone, bis-PEG-12 dimethicone,dimethicone/cyclomethicone/phenyl trimethicone/trimethylsiloxysilicate,polyvinylcaprolactam, trimethylpentanediol/adipic acid/glycerincrosspolymer, bis-PEG-12 dimethicone beeswax, cetearylalcohol/ceteareth-20, VP/eicosene copolymer, acrylates/octylacrylamidecopolymer, VA/crotonates/vinyl neodecanoate copolymer, acrylatescopolymer, and vinyl caprolactam/VP/dimethylaminoethyl methacrylatecopolymer.

The water sensitive, erodible dried film may further comprise activeagents, cleaning agents, processing aids, or combinations thereof.Preferably, the active agents are therapeutic active agents and compriseone or more of aloe, vitamins, emollients, moisturizers, clottingagents, anti-chafing agents, fragrances, depilatory agents, essentialoils, antioxidants, alpha-hydroxy acids, alpha-keto acids,anti-bacterials, anti-fungals, anti-microbials, anti-virals, analgesics,anti-allergenics, antihistamines, anti-inflammatory agents such assuperoxide dismutase, anti-irritants, anti-neoplastics, anti-acneagents, anti-aging agents, anesthetics, antiseptics, insect repellents,skin cooling compounds, skin warming compounds, skin protectants, skinpenetration enhancers, exfoliants, lubricants, or combinations thereof.Preferably, the cleaning agents comprise de-greasers, surfactants,enzymes, fabric conditioners, anti-microbials, anti-bacterials,anti-fungals, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the processing aidsare fillers comprising talc, clay, and diatomaceous earth, orcombinations thereof.

DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

FIG. 1 describes various uses and applications of the embodiments ofthis invention.

FIG. 2 describes an example of the base anhydrous polysaccharide filmformulation. The flexibility of the base anhydrous polysaccharide filmformulation is shown in FIG. 2, graphically describing adjustments thatcan be made in the base polymer group (BPG), variations inpolysaccharide types and numerous skin care additives possible. Manyother additives are possible depending upon the targeted use for theanhydrous film and the substrates involved.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION

In the context of shaving implements, the present invention addressesthe need for an alternative to PEO by using polysaccharides to providelubricious and consistent sustained release of one or more active agentsthrough a water sensitive, erodible anhydrous film. The anhydrous filmsand related embodiments described herein are quite effective incontrolling the release rate of polysaccharides and other skin careagents to skin or other surfaces in a variety of applications.

In the presence of a small amount of water and very little pressure, theanhydrous film when contacted against the skin during wet shaving, forexample, will deliver instantly consistent and sufficient level ofpolysaccharide(s) as well as other active agents while maintaining itsdimensional and structural integrity.

Utilizing the technology disclosed herein, the anhydrous films can bemanufactured in such a way to control the number of uses to deliversatisfactory amounts of polysaccharides or other active agents. Forinstance, anhydrous films when used as razor comfort strips areenvisioned to be effective for about 3 to about 45 uses. Modifying thethickness, composition and size of the anhydrous film allows the numberof uses to be delivered by this technology. For instance, the films arecontemplated to have a thickness of about 0.1 mm to about 7 mm but canbe larger depending upon its product use.

As disclosed herein, the size, thickness and especially the chemicalcomposition can be adjusted for the desired purpose, in a wide varietyof unique combinations. The versatility of these anhydrous films willaccommodate a continued and consistent amount of polysaccharide filmcomposition released during shaving in addition control the number ofshaves the comfort strip can deliver.

The anhydrous film starts out as a fluid composition that may compriseor consist essentially of or consist of a polysaccharide, one or morebase polymer group (BPG) polymers, and a sufficient amount of solventfor dispersing the polysaccharide(s) and the other film modifiersdepending upon use. Once the base polymer group (BPG) polymers aredispersed in the solvent along with the polysaccharide(s), they aremixed until homogenous along with film modifiers and processed whereuponthe solvent is removed to form a substantially uniform dried filmcomprising or consisting essentially of or consisting of thepolysaccharide(s) and the BPG polymer. Additional components such asactive agents may be added during the mixing phase to alter rheology orimprove resultant film qualities. The dispersion is then cast in adesired thickness and the solvent is removed, leaving a substantiallydry film. The film is then cut into desired sizes.

Polysaccharide(s)

Polysaccharides are composed of multiple saccharides (sugars) forming alarge, branched or unbranched chain. The vast majority ofpolysaccharides used in cosmetics are natural or semi-natural. Based ontheir unique multi-functionality they play a very important role incosmetic formulation technology. Since polysaccharides aremulti-functional they act as thickeners, suspending agents, hairconditioners, moisturizers, emulsifiers, emollients, and evenwound-healing agents. Polysaccharides generally are classified based ontheir electrochemical charges. Carboxy methyl cellulose having amolecular weight of 30,000 to 100,000 disperses in the BPG polymer mix,casts well on release paper and dries with sufficient thickness. Thisfilm when wetted or used on wet surface—skin for example—demonstrates avery lubricious, non-sticky feel.*Anionic Polysaccharides: Natural:alginic acid, pectin, xanthan gum, hyaluronic acid, chondroitin sulfate,gum arabic, gum karaya, gum tragacanth Semi-Natural:carboxymethyl-chitin, cellulose gum.

Cationic Polysaccharides: Natural: chitosan Semi-Natural: cationic guargum, cationic hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC).

Nonionic Polysaccharides: Natural: starch, dextrins, guar gumSemi-Natural: cellulose ethers (e.g. hydroxy-ethylcellulose,methylcellulose, nitrocellulose).

Amphoteric Polysaccharides: Semi-Natural: carboxymethylchitosan,N-hydroxy-dicarboxyethyl-chitosan, modified potato starch.

Hydrophobic Polysaccharides: Semi-Natural: cetyl hydroxyethylcellulose,poly-quaternium 24.

The combination of polysaccharide(s) and base polymer group polymers areessential to the function and effectiveness of the resultant films. Inthe dried film, this combination facilitates the erosion of the basepolymer group polymers at a efficient rate, and allows thepolysaccharide to be released instantaneously at a consistent andsustained rate. The proper selection of BPG polymers combined with theappropriate polysaccharide forms a uniform mixture when dried. Certainethyl cellulose polymers (Dow Ethocel) can act as a viscosity modifierin the fluid composition to help make a substantially uniform erodibleanhydrous film. Very high levels of polysaccharide (carboxymethylcellulose, xanthan gum, locust bean gum) can be achieved in theseanhydrous compositions −60%.

The fluid composition should have an ideal viscosity level wherein thefluid composition can flow to form a substantially continuous film ofsubstantially uniform thickness. Ideally, viscosity of the fluidcomposition is between about 800 to about 3000 centipoise (cPs), andmore preferably between about 1000 to about 1800 cPs. The viscosity ofthe anhydrous fluid composition is based upon the amount of anhydroussolvent used together with the type and amount of polysaccharide.

In the fluid composition, the polysaccharide is preferably present in anamount of about 2 wt. % to about 55 wt. %, based on a total weight ofthe fluid composition. In preferred embodiments of the fluidcomposition, the polysaccharide is present between about 15 wt. % toabout 45 wt. %, and more preferably from about 30 wt. % to about 40 wt.%. After removing the solvent from the fluid composition to form theanhydrous film, the polysaccharide is present in an amount of about 25wt. % to about 80 wt. %, and more preferably from about 50 wt. % toabout 60 wt. %, based on a total weight of the dried anhydrous film.

The molecular weight of the polysaccharide is an important aspect of theintended use of the dried anhydrous film. In general higher molecularweight polysaccharides are preferred for providing lubricious feel onthe skin. Furthermore, the final product use will dictate the particlesize of the polysaccharide used in the fluid composition. Preferredparticle size is through 60 mesh held on 100 mesh (using standard screensizes). The preferred molecular weight is from 30,000 to 100,000.

Base Polymer Group (BPG) Polymer

The base polymer group of polymers form the basis of providing ananhydrous flexible, non-tacky film when the solvent is removed. It mustaccommodate and incorporate the polysaccharide ingredient in the fluidstate thus providing a uniform mixture or dispersion. Moreover, thesegroup of polymers must be able to accept or disperse a wide variety ofactive ingredients depending upon desired use of the dry film. The basepolymer group generally will provide the dry film to be water sensitive,water soluble, erodible, or water resistant depending upon end use.

The base polymer group (BPG) preferred embodiments of the anhydrousfluid composition consists of one or more polyamide polymers,stearoxymethicone/dimethicone copolymer, C30-45 alkyl methicone,behenoxyPEG-10 dimethicone, bis-PEG-18methyl ether dimethylsilane,C30-45 alkyl dimethicone, bisPEG-8 dimethicone, bis-stearyldi-methicone, bis-PEG-12 dimethicone, dimethicone/cyclomethicone/phenyltrimethicone/trimethylsiloxysilicate, polyvinylcaprolactam,trimethylpentanediol/adipic acid/glycerin crosspolymer, bis-PEG-12dimethicone beeswax, cetearyl alcohol/ceteareth-20, VP/eicosenecopolymer, acrylates/octylacrylamide copolymer, VA/crotonates/vinylneodecanoate copolymer, acrylates copolymer, and vinylcaprolactam/VP/dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate copolymer. Preferably,the BPG in the liquid composition is in the amount of 15 wt. % to about50 wt. %

Examples of preferred base polymer group polymers used herein includepolyamide polymers—Polyamide-8, stearoxymethicone/dimethicone copolymer,dimethicone/cyclomethicone/phenyl trimethicone/trimethylsiloxysilicate,trimethylpentanediol/adipic acid/glycerin crosspolymer,polyvinylcaprolactam, acrylates copolymer and combinations thereof.

Solvent

The solvent is the essential ingredient to provide the anhydrous fluidphase compositions and serves to assist in forming the films disclosedherein. The solvent should be non-aqueous, and preferably solubilizesthe base polymer group polymers. It should not dissolve thepolysaccharides, but allows them to be well dispersed in the fluidcomposition. Additionally, it should be volatile at room temperature,e.g., about 25° Celsius (C), to about 200° C. Preferably, the solventwill be able to dissolve one or more of the processing aids describedherein although a dispersion of the processing aids is also acceptable.The solvent is preferably either an alcohol or a hydrocarbon, dependingon the choice of base polymer group polymers selected.

Alcohols chosen as the solvent are preferably C₂ to C₁₂ alcohols orisomers thereof. Examples include ethanol, propanol, butanol, pentanol,hexanol, heptanol, octanol, nonanol, decanol, undecanol, dodecanol, andtheir isomers. Preferred alcohols are ethanol, isopropanol, alone or incombination. Hydrocarbon solvents are preferably C₅ to C₂₀ alkanes, C₅to C₂₀ alkenes, or isomers thereof. More preferably, the hydrocarbonsolvent is isododecane

Preferably, the solvent is present in an amount or quantity sufficientto provide the appropriate and desired consistency to form asubstantially continuous film. More preferably, the solvent is presentin an amount of about 12 wt. % to about 50 wt. %.

Optional Ingredients

As desired, the fluid composition and resultant anhydrous film caninclude other components as described herein. An important criteria isthat the additional components themselves do not contain water (otherthan trace amounts), so as to preserve the anhydrous nature of the fluidcomposition and resultant film.

The anhydrous fluid composition may contain a variety of activeingredients such as skin care including polyethylene glycol, laurellactate/myristyl lactate/cetyl lactate, isostearyl neopentanonte,octyldodecyl sterol stearate, myristyl stearate, caprylic/caprictri-glyceride, C12-C15 alkyl benzoate, dipentaerythritylhexacaprylate/hexacaprate,

The anhydrous fluid composition may further comprise active agents,cleaning agents, processing aids, or combinations thereof. Preferably,the active agents are therapeutic active agents and comprise one or moreof aloe, vitamins, emollients, moisturizers, clotting agents,anti-chafing agents, fragrances, depilatory agents, essential oils,antioxidants, alpha-hydroxy acids, alpha-keto acids, anti-bacterials,anti-fungals, anti-microbials, anti-virals, analgesics,anti-allergenics, antihistamines, anti-inflammatory agents such assuperoxide dismutase, anti-irritants, anti-neoplastics, anti-acneagents, anti-aging agents, anesthetics, antiseptics, insect repellents,skin cooling compounds, skin warming compounds, skin protectants, skinpenetration enhancers, exfoliants, lubricants, or combinations thereof.Preferably, the cleaning agents comprise de-greasers, surfactants,enzymes, fabric conditioners, anti-microbials, anti-bacterials,anti-fungals, or combinations thereof. Preferably, the processing aidsare fillers comprising talc, clay, and diatomaceous earth, orcombinations thereof.

Some preferred embodiments of the fluid composition to make the erodibleanhydrous film are shown in Table I below:

The fluid compositions are prepared by charging an appropriate sizebeaker equipped with a hot plate and mechanical stirrer with thesolvent. While stirring, the components of the fluid compositions areadded one by one into the solvent until a homogeneous dispersion isachieved. All of the formulations herein were prepared at roomtemperature (68°-70° F.) except formulation #13 (chart) which had to beheated to 55° F. to assure that particular ingredients are solubilizedin the solvent. Preferably, low shear mixing and a cover over the beakeris utilized as each ingredient is added including the polysaccharides tominimize evaporation of the isopropanol. Any of the formulations thatare heated are then cooled to room temperature. Skin care agents areadded during this time as well. Additional isopropanol is added toreplace the amount evaporated during heating and/or adjust theviscosity.

Ingredients 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Isopropol alcohol 50.33 40 4040 40 35 35 40 40 35 34.79 34.22 24.22 HSP-1180 5 Sylverclear 200 5 5 55 Advantage Plus 30 30 30 30 10 20 22 24 Dow VM-2270 4.67 Pecosil G 5 55 5 5 2 2 4 1.74 1.74 1.74 Cekol 6000 15 15 Cekl 2500 15 OleoCraft LP-205 5 5 5 5 5 4.35 4.35 4.35 Lexorez 200 20 10 10 10 8 10 3.48 4.05 4.05FC-5002 Resin Gum 5 C30 Resin Wax 5 Cekol 5000 15 Cekol 30,000 15 15 1515 15 Luvimer 100P 22 Luviskol Plus 24 20.87 20.87 20.87 PEG-200 5 5 5 55 5 3 3 3 3 2.17 2.17 2.17 Cekol 100,000 30.43 30.43 30.43 DC-580 Wax2.17 Enhans SB-63 2.17 Gransil VX-418 5 3 3 4 2.17 Total 100 100 100 100100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100 100

A stainless steel plate approximately 15″×18″ having a thickness of ⅛inch is covered with a sheet of silicone treated release paper (12″×14″)on the top side. Using an appropriate doctor blade, the fluidcomposition is poured in front of the doctor blade across the paper anddrawn down the fluid composition. The cast fluid composition is thendried in a convection oven at about 80° C. to about 85° C. until aconstant weight is achieved. Using an appropriate doctor blade, one ofordinary skill in the art can produce dried films having thicknesses of1 mm, 1.5 mm, or 2 mm. The film should be cooled prior to cutting todesired sizes.

One of skill in the art will have the knowledge to cast the fluidcomposition onto an appropriate substrate to achieve a film of desiredthickness. Substrates contemplated herein include woven and non-wovensubstrates, hydrophilic polyurethane foam substrates, adhesive backedsubstrates, polymer substrates, and casting onto a layer of the driedfilm itself to produce a multi-layered film. The solvent can be removedby heating the cast dispersion in an oven set for a time and temperaturesufficient to volatilize the solvent and solidify the film or by othermeans known to one of ordinary skill in the art.

As an example listed below is formulation #11 listed in the wet or fluidstate as well as after drying the cast formulation as described above.

Ingredients #11 Fluid #11 Dry Isopropol alcohol 34.79 — Pecosil G 1.743.30 OleoCraft LP-20 4.35 8.26 Lexorez 200 3.48 6.60 Luviskol Plus 20.8715.85 PEG-200 2.17 4.12 Cekol 100,000 30.43 57.75 Gransil VX-418 2.174.12 Total 100 100

Technology Applications, Shaving Devices, Product Forms and Methods ofUse

The anhydrous films disclosed herein are useful in a variety ofapplications, such as skin care, hair care, wound care, drug delivery,fabric care such as softening, hydrophilic polyurethane foams containingfilms, and topical release of superoxide dismutase from speciallydesigned films. Finally, it is possible to design formulations assoluble solid laundry detergents.

Films can be integrated into or associated with a hair removal device,such as razors or razor cartridges. Preferably, the hair removal deviceis a razor. In the case of a razor, the anhydrous film may be arranged,positioned or otherwise provided on the razor cartridge as a comfortstrip. For instance, the comfort strip can be located before and/orafter the blade(s) in the direction of cutting and may even beconfigured as a continuous portion entirely surrounding the blades.

Anhydrous films may be affixed to the hair removal device in anyappropriate fashion—it can be mechanically fitted onto a separate razorcartridge, or directly onto the hair removal device. Alternatively, theanhydrous film may be directly or indirectly adhered to the hair removaldevice by means of an adhesive.

In shaving and hair removal devices, the anhydrous film can controllablyand consistently deliver a polysaccharide and/or mixed polysaccharidesalong with active agents such as shaving aid materials and skin careagents to the skin or hair before, during or after shaving. Once theanhydrous films described herein containing polysaccharides and theactive agents are exposed to an adequate amount of water, thepolysaccharides along with active agents are released onto the skin orhair as the shaving or hair removal device bearing the film is movedacross the skin. As the film moves across the skin, the film solublizes,abrades or erodes away to provide a fresh surface on which the activeagents are readily accessible. This is a major improvement over priorart extruded or molded comfort strips wherein the current polyethyleneoxide polymer is trapped within a water-insoluble matrix reducingeffectiveness. Range of thicknesses can be from 1 mm, 1.5 mm to 2 mmexcept where the anhydrous film is being coated in a special way such adots, strips or an ultra thin coating on fabrics for a specific use.

Skin Care Wipe

Another embodiment utilizing the anhydrous polysaccharide film is a dryskin care wipe. The fluid film coated on nonwoven fabric and dried canbe used on wet skin after showering before drying off to help dry skin,provide moisturization and protection for the skin. When the films arein the form of an impregnated skin care wipe, a user sweeps the wipeacross either wet skin or activates the wipe with water to moisten thefilm just prior to use, so that water-soluble active agents within thewipe, including polysaccharides, are released onto the skin in the areadesired. For instance, such a wipe may comprise an adjusted siliconepolymer mix with one or more skin care active ingredients such asemollient esters, glycerin, and a specially designed fragrance alongwith one or more polysaccharides capable of forming a supple, non-tackyprotective film. The polysaccharide level in the dry film can be about10 wt. % to about 60 wt. %.

Hair Care Styling/Freshening

Yet another embodiment of the erodible anhydrous film contemplates haircare wherein a comb or brush comprises the film disclosed herein. Theanhydrous film is cast or molded into strips or strings for wrappingaround the comb or brush “teeth”, or form the actual “teeth” itself. Auser then runs the comb through wet hair so that water-soluble activeagents within the film associated or attached to the comb/brush,including polysaccharides to provide slip and body to the hair surface.Alternatively, the user can activate the film with an adequate amount ofwater and run the comb through dry hair. Fluid compositions can have anadjusted base polymer group containing specific polysaccharides in anamount of about 5 wt. % to 12 wt. %. Vinyl caprolactam or mixedarcylates are specifically designed for hair care use and can be easilyincorporated into the base polymer group along with selected fragrancesor other special hair treatments.

Wound Care

Because their biocompatibility, biodegradability and similarity tomacromolecules recognized by the human body, natural polymers such aspolysaccharides (alginates, chitin, chitosan, heparin, chondroitin),proteoglycans and proteins (collagen, gelatin, fibrin, keratin, silkfibroin, eggshell membrane) are extensively used in wounds and burnsmanagement. Fluid formulation can be adjusted to include appropriatepharmaceutical grade polysaccharide. Formulations can include basepolymer group polymers that contain silicone polymers that can providecleansing, skin protection and items such as clotting agents to stopbleeding along with appropriate polysaccharide such as carboxyl methylcellulose. Fluid formulations can be coated on nonwoven substrates orhydrophilic polyurethane foam sheet stock. Film modifying aids such asglycerin and glycerin polymers can be included for burn treatment.

Drug Delivery

Fluid compositions can be designed specifically incorporating basepolymer group polymers along with polysaccharides plus drugs for acnetreatment such as salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide coated and dried onnonwoven fabrics or gauze material forming pads or wipes. Patient wouldactivate by moistening with water and wiping across affected skin arealeaving a dry treatment film. Other drug medication wipes includingsteroids, antibacterial agents can be accommodated.

Hydrophilic Polyurethane Impregnated Foams

Another embodiment of the skin care wipes comprises incorporating thefluid composition into or onto a foam sheet to form the anhydrous film.As an example of such an embodiment, a hydrophilic polyurethane foam(HPU) sheet having recesses on at least one surface of the HPU sheet,may be filled with the fluid composition described herein. The HPU canbe made up of a water phase and a polymer phase that is mixed togetherto make a foam in a mold so as to form the recesses. This fluidcomposition can be cast into the foam sheet settling into the recessesand dried to remove the isopropanol solvent. Alternatively, the foamsheet can be saturated with the fluid composition and dried such thatthe anhydrous film resides on a surface of the foam sheet and/or in theinterstitial spaces of the foam sheet.

Fabric Softeners

In the area of fabric care, another embodiment of the erodible anhydrousfilm may also be used in the form of or in connection with a dryersheet. The anhydrous film may be used in treating or softening a fabricin a dryer, where the fabric is contacted with the dryer sheet, in adryer, under conditions of heat and water vapor. For instance, the dryersheet can comprise of the anhydrous film of the general formula asdescribed above wherein base polymer group polymer, and additionallyabout 10 wt. % of mixed solid fabric softener ingredients, fragrance andsolid nonionic surfactants, and diatomaceous earth.

Solid Laundry Detergent

The fluid composition may be cast onto release paper substrate. As alaundry detergent film, the film in the presence of water, willsolubilize releasing fabric cleaning agents into the wash water in alaundry machine during operation. Such a laundry detergent film caninclude a concentrated water soluble detergent suitable for use in astandard or high efficiency washing machine. For instance, the laundrydetergent film can be an anhydrous film of the general formula asdescribed above, but with a minimum amount of base polymer grouppolymer. Preferably, the base polymer group polymer is water soluble,and can comprise a PVP polymer. The formula can also containpolysaccharide in an amount of about 10 wt. %, as well as laundrydetergent ingredients comprising surfactants, enzymatic cleaners, fabricbrighteners, fragrance, and the like.

Although this invention has been shown and described with respect to thedetailed embodiments thereof, it will be understood by those of skill inthe art that various changes may be made and equivalents may besubstituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of theinvention. In addition, modifications may be made to adapt a particularsituation or material to the teachings of the invention withoutdeparting from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intendedthat the invention not be limited to the particular embodimentsdisclosed in the above detailed description, but that the invention willinclude all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

1-39. (canceled)
 40. A method of delivering active agents to a surfacecomprising the steps of a) providing a device comprising an anhydrousfilm, the anhydrous film comprising: (i) polysaccharide in an amount ofabout 8 wt. % to about 80 wt. % based on a total weight of said erodibleanhydrous film; and (ii) one or more erodible base polymer grouppolymers selected from the group consisting of Polyamide-8,stearoxymethicone/dimethicone copolymer,dimethicone/cyclomethicone/phenyl trimethicone/trimethylsiloxysilicate,trimethylpentanediol/adipic acid/glycerin crosspolymer,polyvinylcaprolactam, acrylates copolymer and combinations thereof,(iii) one or more active agents comprising therapeutic agents orcleaning agents, (iv) optionally, film modifying aids; b) activating thedevice by exposure to water or water vapor; and c) contacting thesurface with the activated device such that the polysaccharide and theone or more active agents are released onto the surface.
 41. The methodof claim 40 wherein the device is a hair care device, a hair removaldevice, a wound care device, a fabric care device or a skin care wipe.42. The method of claim 40 wherein the therapeutic agents are selectedfrom the group consisting of aloe, vitamins, emollients, moisturizers,clotting agents, anti-chafing agents, fragrances, depilatory agents,essential oils, antioxidants, alpha-hydroxy acids, alpha-keto acids,anti-bacterials, anti-fungals, anti-microbials, anti-virals, analgesics,anti-allergenics, antihistamines, anti-inflammatory agents,anti-irritants, anti-neoplastics, immune boosting agents, immunesuppressing agents, anti-acne agents, anti-aging agents, anesthetics,antiseptics, insect repellents, skin cooling compounds, skin warmingcompounds, skin protectants, skin penetration enhancers, exfoliants,lubricants, and combinations thereof.
 43. The method of claim 40 whereinthe cleaning agents are selected from the group consisting ofde-greasers, surfactants, enzymes, fabric conditioners, anti-microbials,anti-bacterials, anti-fungals, or combinations thereof.
 44. (canceled)45. The method of claim 40 wherein the step of contacting the surfacecomprises contacting a keratinous surface or a hard surface or a fabric.46. (canceled)
 47. (canceled)
 48. A nonwoven fabric impregnated with anerodible anhydrous film comprising a polysaccharide selected from thegroup consisting of carboxy methyl cellulose, alginate, carrageenan,locust bean gum, xanthan gum, sodium hyaluronate, pectin, and mixturesthereof, in an amount of about 20 wt. % to about 70 wt. % based on atotal weight of said erodible anhydrous film; and an erodible a basepolymer group polymer selected from the group consisting of polyamidepolymers, stearoxymethicone/dimethicone copolymer, C30-45 alkylmethicone, behenoxyPEG-10 dimethicone, bis-PEG-18methyl etherdimethylsilane, C30-45 alkyl dimethicone, bisPEG-8 dimrthicone,bis-stearyl dimethicone, bis-PEG-12 dimethicone,dimethicone/cyclomethicone/phenyl trimethicone/trimethylsiloxysilicate,polyvinylcaprolactam, trimethylpentanediol/adipic acid/glycerincrosspolymer, bis-PEG-12 dimethicone beeswax, cetearylalcohol/ceteareth-20, VP/eicosene copolymer, acrylates/octylacrylamidecopolymer, VA/crotonates/vinyl neodecanoate copolymer, acrylatescopolymer, and vinyl caprolactam/VP/dimethylaminoethyl methacrylatecopolymer, in an amount of about 15 wt. % to about 50 wt. %.
 49. Thenonwoven fabric of claim 48, wherein the erodible anhydrous film furthercomprises an anti-acne active agent, cleaning agents, film modifyingaids, or combinations thereof.
 50. The nonwoven fabric of claim 49wherein the film modifying aids are plasticizers selected from the groupconsisting of polyethylene glycol, propylene glycol, butylene glycol,pentalene glycol, glycerin or combinations thereof.
 51. The nonwovenfabric of claim 48, wherein the erodible anhydrous film furthercomprises a therapeutic agent selected from the group consisting ofaloe, vitamins, emollients, glyercin, moisturizers, anti-chafing agents,depilatory agents, essential oils, antioxidants, alpha-hydroxy acids,alpha-keto acids, anti-bacterials, anti-fungals, anti-microbials,anti-virals, analgesics, anti-allergenics, antihistamines,anti-inflammatory agents, anti-irritants, anti-acne agents, anesthetics,exfoliants, and combinations thereof.
 52. The nonwoven fabric of claim48, wherein the erodible anhydrous film further comprises a siliconepolymer.
 53. A hydrophilic polyurethane foam (HPU) sheet having recesseson at least one surface of the HPU sheet, wherein the at least onesurface is coated with, and the recesses are filled with, an anhydrousfilm comprising a polysaccharide selected from the group consisting ofcarboxy methyl cellulose, alginate, carrageenan, locust bean gum,xanthan gum, sodium hyaluronate, pectin, and mixtures thereof, in anamount of about 20 wt. % to about 70 wt. % based on a total weight ofsaid erodible anhydrous film; and an erodible a base polymer grouppolymer selected from the group consisting of polyamide polymers,stearoxymethicone/dimethicone copolymer, C30-45 alkyl methicone,behenoxyPEG-10 dimethicone, bis-PEG-18methyl ether dimethylsilane,C30-45 alkyl dimethicone, bisPEG-8 dimrthicone, bis-stearyl dimethicone,bis-PEG-12 dimethicone, dimethicone/cyclomethicone/phenyltrimethicone/trimethylsiloxysilicate, polyvinylcaprolactam,trimethylpentanediol/adipic acid/glycerin crosspolymer, bis-PEG-12dimethicone beeswax, cetearyl alcohol/ceteareth-20, VP/eicosenecopolymer, acrylates/octylacrylamide copolymer, VA/crotonates/vinylneodecanoate copolymer, acrylates copolymer, and vinylcaprolactam/VP/dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate copolymer, in an amountof about 15 wt. % to about 50 wt. %.
 54. The HPU sheet of claim 53,wherein the anhydrous film further comprises an anti-acne active agent,cleaning agents, film modifying aids, or combinations thereof.
 55. TheHPU sheet of claim 54, wherein the film modifying aids are plasticizersselected from the group consisting of polyethylene glycol, propyleneglycol, butylene glycol, pentalene glycol, glycerin or combinationsthereof.
 56. The HPU sheet of claim 53, wherein the anhydrous filmfurther comprises a therapeutic agent selected from the group consistingof aloe, vitamins, emollients, glyercin, moisturizers, anti-chafingagents, depilatory agents, essential oils, antioxidants, alpha-hydroxyacids, alpha-keto acids, anti-bacterials, anti-fungals, anti-microbials,anti-virals, analgesics, anti-allergenics, antihistamines,anti-inflammatory agents, anti-irritants, anti-acne agents, anesthetics,exfoliants, and combinations thereof.